Why in Western Society is ostensible achievement more important than intrinsic character?

and often comes at the expense of character? I know lecturers, managers, business persons and many other accomplished persons that can be unkind, nasty, kick you when you are down, laugh at you etc etc. and I just don't understand or get it. Regardless they are lauded by society. It has come to a point I would rather be a cipher and non entity in life in the most hidden, private career imaginable without the glory and honours if it means I retain good character. If one buys too much into society it perverts and distorts you...